HANDMADE HURRICANE LANTERNS

They say some things are worth waiting for, and it must be true, because these gorgeous glass hurricane lanterns embarked on quite the journey before finally reaching Chez Monkey.

Handcrafted in Colombia, South America, next stop was Brooklyn, New York, home of UNCOMMON GOODS. I absolutely adore this website, not just because they have a fascinating array of gifts and wares that you won’t find in the generic high street stores.

They have a genuine passion for creativity, fair trade, and environmental responsibility; their catalogues are made from recycled paper, and you’ll never find products containing leather, fur, or feathers. They have a dedicated categories for recycled, and handmade goods, and even give customers the option to make a charitable donation at check out.

But, back to that journey. From Brooklyn the candle holders flew to London, and to the East Midlands, then back to New York, then New Jersey. Not on purpose – the courier who was supposed to be delivering my lovely package, well, didn’t. So the parcel got bounced back.

When I explained the mixup to the team at Uncommon Goods, they didn’t even hesitate. ‘Don’t worry, we’ll arrange for that to be sent back out to you,’ I was told. Less than a week later my parcel arrived, and it really was worth the wait.

The pic above shows the small and large lantern ((£25.72 and £29.40 respectively – international delivery is calculated at check out). The clear glass has a textured, handmade look to it that I love, and there are little glass dimples on the inside to perch the metal candle trays. The design is simple, and elegant, and you can even tailor them for different occasions with coloured glass beads, sea shells, or even some green holly leaves for an Xmas feel.

If summer decides to return, I might even try adding an inch of water, and floating some flowers on the top – Singapore orchids, or Frangipani blooms would look amazing, don’t you think?

Check them out yourself, for gifts for women, birthday gifts, and personalised gifts.

 • hurricane lamps were provided for the purpose of review